Furocious
It’s not all shamrocks and swinging kilts at Maryland’s Irish Festival (http://www.irishfestival.com), although you’ll see plenty of that, too. But tucked amid the wood carvings of Celtic Knots and sterling silver Claddaghs, you’ll meet some pretty impressive four-legged hounds this weekend at the Timonium Fairgrounds.
FUROCIOUS admits to weak knees when it comes to Irish Wolfhounds. There’s something ancient and awesome about this dog, the tallest of all breeds at up to 35 inches high, which were originally bred to hunt wolves and Irish elk. I met my first Irish Wolfhound in a Severna Park pet supply store last year and was impressed with its regal, yet approachable presence. At this weekend’s Irish Festival, the Potomac Valley Irish Wolfhound Club (http://www.pviwc.org) will share breed information and conduct meet-and-greets with their majestic hounds.
I met Rob Maloy and his two “Big Dogs of Ireland”, Seamus and Baru, in the front hall of the Cow Palace Friday evening. At 170 and 175 pounds, the two dogs were calm, regal and quiet. The information that the Potomac Valley Irish Wolfhound group provides tells us that while the breed is imposing and alert, they are not suspicious nor aggressive (perhaps NOT making them the best guard dogs), they are great with children and – clearly – need room to roam.
On the more petite scale, while still keeping it all very regal, are the adoptable Greyhounds. These sleek dogs are sweet, receptive and ready to meet new bipeds in the hope of a blissful future of wags and pets. My neighbors, George and Deb, have a rescue greyhound named Gracie and I can attest to her gentle and discerning demeanor. These cuties being showcased at the Irish Festival are from Greyt Expectations Greyhound Rescue,(tm)Inc., a non-profit, 501(c)(3), greyhound adoption organization located in Lusby, Maryland (St. Mary’s County). They had me at first ‘woof.’ You’ll be able to pet the dogs, learn about the breed and adoption process and be sure to ask about their gorgeous collars, made by one of the volunteers at the rescue. (http://www.greytexpectations.org).
No outing would be complete if it didn’t involve beer…I mean, buying something for our dogs. So, naturally, we gravitated over to Mackenzie Couture Accessories from Maine (http://www.mackenziebelts.com/) where I was awestruck at the simply lush, gorgeous dog collars and leashes. Owner, Heather M. Jaccoma, personally designs these elegant doggie accoutrements. Her inspirations come in the form of everything from Tiffany designs to images from the Book of Kells to Victorian designs. She is particular about their authenticity and speaks authoritatively on each one of her memorable designs. Once seen, these woven ribbon collars are simply a fabulous necessity.
FUROCIOUS thinks even STYLE Glamour Girl Lisa Simeone, would approve of this canine couture. So, while I wouldn’t say the Maryland Irish Festival has gone to the dogs, the parts that have are an extra special treat. The show is in Timonium this weekend at the Maryland Fairgrounds, Saturday, November 12, Noon to 11 PM and Sunday, November 13, Noon to 6PM. General Admission $13, Senior (62+) $10, Young Adult (ages 12-17) $5, Children under 12 and Active Military with ID are FREE. You can purchase tickets online or at the door. There are musical and dance performances, pipers, Irish crafts and goods, baked goods like Irish soda bread and scones, food and beverage vendors, Celtic art, clothing, jewelry and much more. Pass the Guinness and bring me a dog! Have a great weekend, high-paw.
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